Les Lavières

Les Lavières sits within the commune of Savigny-lès-Beaune, one of the key appellations along the Côte de Beaune in Burgundy. The climat occupies a mid-slope position with a south-facing aspect, benefiting from good sun exposure across a continental climate characterized by hot summers, cool winters, and a shorter growing season than more southerly parts of Burgundy. Elevations range from 250 to 400 metres, placing the vines in a zone where temperature variation between day and night preserves natural acidity and freshness in the grapes.

• Mid-slope, south-facing position optimizes sun exposure
• Continental climate with hot summers and cool winters
• Elevation of 250 to 400 metres supports freshness and acidity retention
• Located in the most prestigious section of the Savigny-lès-Beaune appellation

The soils of Les Lavières are diverse and geologically interesting. The upper sections feature limestone with clay and gravelly sandstone, while lower areas transition to marl with ferruginous pebbles and reddish-brown crumbly limestone. This variety of soil types contributes to the mineral complexity that characterizes wines from the climat. The name itself is directly tied to the geology: 'Lavières' derives from 'Lave,' the flat limestone tiles quarried historically and used to cover rooftops across the region. These distinctive stones are found in the sub-soil of the vineyard, giving the climat both its identity and its name.

• Upper soils: limestone with clay and gravelly sandstone
• Lower soils: marl with ferruginous pebbles and reddish-brown crumbly limestone
• Name derived from 'Lave,' flat limestone roofing tiles found in the sub-soil
• Soil diversity underpins the mineral and structural complexity of the wines

Les Lavières produces red wines exclusively from Pinot Noir. The style is defined by elegance, balance, and a mineral backbone that reflects the limestone-rich soils beneath the vines. Expect delicate red fruit aromas such as cherry and raspberry alongside floral notes, often violet or rose. The structure is refined rather than powerful, with well-integrated tannins and a freshness that gives the wines good aging potential. Vines averaging over 50 years in age add a further layer of concentration and complexity without sacrificing the lightness that defines fine Savigny-lès-Beaune premier cru.

• Exclusively Pinot Noir
• Delicate red fruits, floral notes, mineral finish
• Refined tannin structure with natural freshness
• Old vines (50 years plus) contribute concentration and complexity

Several respected Burgundy négociants and domaines produce wine from Les Lavières. Bouchard Père et Fils and Louis Jadot bring substantial négociant resources and broad distribution to the climat. Chandon de Briailles, based in Savigny-lès-Beaune itself, is among the most celebrated estate producers for the appellation. Château de Pommard, Louis Chenu, and Domaine Girard round out a strong producer list that gives buyers and students multiple reference points for understanding the climat's range.

• Bouchard Père et Fils: major négociant with wide availability
• Chandon de Briailles: leading estate producer based in Savigny-lès-Beaune
• Louis Jadot: renowned négociant offering consistent quality
• Louis Chenu and Domaine Girard: reliable domaine-level references